Hardscrabble Journal

Cautiously Optimistic

The cycle of harvest and crush is underway. Yesterday was a dizzying first day as we pressed out Boisseau Chardonnay, Boisseau Viognier, Hardscrabble Sauvignon Blanc, and Hardscrabble Semillon. It is quickly becoming evident that 2018 will become the vintage of “pretty” wines. This year the grape skins are thick, probably their defense mechanism in reaction to all the wet weather during the growing season. Skins provide much of the aroma found in the resulting wine. Thick skins give heightened aroma, so this will be one of our winemaking focuses. Cooler fermentations preserve more aromatics.

Rather than blockbuster wines, the 2018s will be perfumed and delicate. Our job is to respect the vintage and bring out the best it has to offer. We react rather than control or manipulate.

Last week’s hot, dry weather reminded me of learning to drive a car with manual transmission. Accelerate, jerk, and then stall. Looks like we will be stalling this weekend as cool damp conditions bring an end to last week’s fast and furious ripening. Next week looks very active, as older vine Avenius Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and perhaps even Riesling approach ripeness.

Linden Vineyards / Learn More / Latest at Linden | Journal: September 8, 2018